[dc]H[/dc]ere in the northern hemisphere, we’re entering our autumn season — my favorite, by far. Soon, the air will be crisp, leaves will turn to vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, and we’ll reach for cozy sweaters and blankets after the sun sets.

Many consider September to be a second January. After a fun and busy summer, comes a time of refocusing, planning, and organizing of our homes, schedules, and end-of-year goals. Kids are back in school, giving parents some breathing space for themselves, and with that space comes lots of possibilities.

For me, this time of year is a beautiful wind-down and the calm before the holiday season. I’m excited to go apple picking, to take some scenic drives and enjoy the foliage, and to create some new offerings to support you in your success, while also enjoying quiet time to just be.

What does your soul need this fall? Maybe you need some down time to regroup. Maybe you’re ready and raring to go on projects that have been put on hold. Whatever is true for you, let it be just that – true for you.

We can spend a whole lot of time “shoulding” all over ourselves. “I should be more involved in my kids’ school.” “I should be more motivated in my business.” “I shouldn’t be wasting so much time reading or relaxing.”

Down time can be more productive than busy time, or at the very least, can make your busy time much more fruitful. Don’t beat yourself up for being “lazy.” It’s in those times that you’re often doing important inner work.

On the other hand, you might be eager to pick up where you left off in hopes of wrapping things up by the end of the year. Just like the intentions you set at the start of a new year, be sure to revisit them with realistic expectations and fresh eyes.

By taking a moment to assess your plan, you may find that the project you started no longer seems like a fit. Maybe the goal you’ve been striving for isn’t quite aligned with who you are. An important part of any process is the reevaluation. Give yourself permission to change course.

Consider these questions when planning your projects:

What do I hope to feel or experience by completing this goal?

Does this idea excite me?

Is it in line with my integrity and values?

Is any part of this a “should”?

Is my soul engaged and plugged in as I move forward?

It’s easy to just dive right into something and get lost in the process. In doing so, you can go on a sort of autopilot and not be present for the experience. As a result, you might find yourself traveling down a path that you never intended to be on.

So, when brainstorming your list of “to-do’s”, be sure to include reflection time on the list.

Ok, you’re up! How do you feel about this time of year? What projects or pursuits are you currently working on? Do you take time to revisit and reevaluate? Are you “shoulding” all over yourself? Share your thoughts in the comments below so we can dig in even deeper!

Kerri, I just love your articles each one hitting home and yes, I love the fall time, the smell of burning leaves, cooking s’mores over a bonfire, fall decorating, mums on my front porch, watching the sun set wrapped in a comfy blanket with a chill in the air..ah love, love, love! Reflection, for me is putting my life back in balance, with the hectic day’s of summer are coming to an end, I get my weekend’s back, Yeah!